Addis ababa: Ghana is looking at deepening economic cooperation with Ethiopia across economic sectors such as trade and industry, according to Ambassador Robert Afriyie.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Ghana's Ambassador to Ethiopia, Robert Afriyie, expressed his country's intent to enhance cooperation in trade, industry, and economic diplomacy with Ethiopia. Ambassador Afriyie noted that they are refining various aspects of this relationship to facilitate stronger economic ties.
Ambassador Afriyie highlighted recent developments that have substantially improved transportation links between the two nations, enhancing both travel and trade opportunities. He mentioned that there are now three to four daily flights connecting Addis Ababa to Accra, which significantly boosts people-to-people movement and trade, a development not seen a few years ago.
He pointed out that this improved connectivity allows Ethiopia to export products like leather, while Ghana can provide its well-known cocoa. The enhanced transport links not only improve imports and exports but also support the shared objectives under the African Continental Free Trade Area. Ambassador Afriyie emphasized that the current times are promising for deepening collaboration, as both nations are experiencing a favorable period for strengthening ties in various sectors.
Ambassador Afriyie also elaborated on the historical friendship between the two nations, tracing it back to the leadership of President Kwame Nkrumah and Emperor Haile Selassie. He recalled their pivotal role in founding the African Union, formerly the Organization of African Unity, marking a significant chapter in the shared history of the two countries.
Furthermore, he stated that Ghanaians played an important role in supporting Ethiopia during World War II against the Axis powers. The Commonwealth cemetery serves as a testament to their sacrifice, as many Ghanaians in the Royal Frontier Force of West Africa and the Gold Coast Regiment gave their lives in Ethiopia's struggle for freedom against the Italian forces.
Rooted in a commitment to mutual support as fellow Africans, Ambassador Afriyie noted that the two countries have collaborated effectively on the global stage, including at the UN and the AU, fostering strong ties that continue to grow.